5 Japanese Hot Springs You Need To Visit In Niseko

There are many onsens, or Japanese hot springs around the Niseko area. We've compiled a list of our top 5 onsen locations that you simply cannot miss out on visiting during your next trip.

What exactly is an onsen?

An onsen (温泉) is a Japanese hot spring, and by definition uses naturally hot water from geothermally heated springs. As a volcanically active country, Japan is home to thousands of onsens all unique in their types and shapes, can be located indoors and outdoors, and contain their own distinctive minerals or chemicals. These days, onsen is a term used loosely to describe any public bath or ryokan with public bath.

What are the benefits of bathing in an onsen?

Onsen water is believed to have healing powers as a result of its mineral or chemical content. You will typically find the mineral composition of the establishment's onsen water on display. Some examples of types of onsen include sulphur onsen, sodium chloride onsen, hydrogen carbonate onsen, iron onsen or ordinary onsen. Many people who soak in onsens do so for relaxation and to cure ailments. In winter, onsen bathing is a

Outside of this, onsens can be enjoyed anytime of the year and are a great way to appreciate nature and the changing seasons. From the vibrant greens in summer, burnt oranges and reds of autumn, and crisp, white winter, each season offers a distinctively different experience. However, there is nothing more invigorating than bathing in an outdoor onsen as snow falls snow a top your head. With that, let's dive in to our top onsen recommendations for Niseko and surrounding areas. See how many you can tick off on your next holiday!

1. Niseko Kiranoyu Onsen, Niseko Town

Reasons to visit: Easy access and delicious pastries

Although Niseko Kiranoyu Onsen is more a public bath than an authentic onsen, it is still regularly visited and well loved by locals. Located a short 1 minute walk from JR Niseko Station, Kiranoyu is a great option for those without their own vehicle. Relax in their spectacular outdoor baths, indoor baths, jacuzzi or sauna, and enjoy the live broadcast of local radio station, Radio Niseko, over the speakers.

The facility is equipped with a spacious resting room that includes massage chairs, vending machines with drinks and ice creams, so be sure to save a little time after your bath to enjoy these luxuries. By the entrance, you can also purchase local vegetables and fruits produced by nearby farmers at great prices.

The bakery Maitorie is located next to the radio stand and serves delicious pastries and many types of bread. We recommend that you don't use your shoes but use the slippers so you can buy pastries and eat them in the resting area.

2. Niseko Annupuri Onsen Yugokorotei

Best accessed by car, Niseko Annupuri Onsen Yugokorotei is an ideal onsen to visit after skiing or snowboarding the slopes in Annupuri ski resort. Yugokorotei is a 100% natural geo-thermal hotspring that features an indoor bath and stunning rock bath outdoors.

The best part is, Yugokorotei offer a special onsen and lunch set for ¥1,000 which includes Tonkatsu (pork cutlet), rice, salad and miso soup. Parking is available on site and the onsen is open from 6:00am to midnight. However, note that cleaning takes place twice a week so be sure to check ahead with the facility before visiting.

3. Rankoshi Yuusenkaku Onsen

Reasons to visit: One onsen facility with 5 different baths to enjoy

Similar to Kiranoyu, Yuusenkaku is walking distance from Konbu Station as it is located right next to the station. Simply go up the stairs after disembarking the train and the building is right there. It is also accessible by car, but from Kutchan, why not enjoy a scenic 20 minute train ride adventure?

This onsen is famous for leaving your skin feeling rejuvenated, soft and smooth due to the mineral properties of the water. The facility has 5 indoor baths and 1 outdoor bath. The indoor baths are set at different temperatures, ranging rom 38 degrees celcius to 46 degrees celcius, and uses 100% natural flowing hot spring water. For a unique experience, take a dip in the whirlpool bath or enjoy time standing under the small waterfall for a gentle shoulder massage.

The resting area includes massage chairs, a small games centre for children, and a small stand selling local produce.

4. Makkari Onsen

Reasons to visit: In our opinion, there is no onsen around this area with a better view of Mt. Yotei

Makkari Onsen is loved by locals and quieter than most locations on our list as it is difficult to access without a car. However, as it is located off the road and surrounded by fields, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of Mt. Yotei from the outdoor bath. On a clear day, the view is quite stunning and at night, due to the lack of street lights, the stars shine brightly and beautifully. The onsen itself is not very big, with enough room to seat about 6-8 people comfortably. But never fear, on an average day you will likely be joined by only 2 or 3 other.

Apart from the onsens themselves, the facility has a spacious rest area with massage chairs. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at their onsite restaurant such as their famous "yurine teishoku" (lily bulb lunch set), or pay a visit to Maccarina, a lovely Italian restaurant located nearby.

5. Kyogoku Onsen

Reasons to visit: An onsen facility that looks a little like a spaceship, hard to miss

Just a few minutes from Kyogoku Fukidashi Park, this onsen is perfect for families. With a large onsen area and many showers, it can be used by many without feeling crowded. Being so close to the Fukidashi Park, families can enjoy a nice stroll around the park and are able to see the clear spring water that is also being used in the onsen. In the summer, there is also a campground, park golf, and tennis courts. A perfect place to have fun move around, and go straight into a nice hot onsen. There is a local store stand that sells produce for cheap and a food stand as well that offers delicious Japanese meals. If you really enjoy the food, you can always come back just for a meal - let reception know and your in!

There you have it, these are our top Niseko area onsens for you to enjoy! For obvious reasons, these are based solely on preference, be sure to let our reception know if you went to a different onsen and loved it. We would be happy to add your favorite into our selection. You can also check out the Niseko Yumeguri website that offers passes (red and blue) that can be purchased to be used as prepaid tickets.

Visit our Ultimate Niseko Onsen Guide map for directions on how to find our top recommendations, and download our infographic below to tick off your favourites.